Itinerary

Welcome to Israel! Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, VIP Services have been arranged to assist you through formalities. At your sophisticated hotel overlooking a seaside park, rest, relax and acclimate to your new time zone. Tonight, meet your Tour Manager and fellow travelers at a Welcome Reception and Dinner. A great beginning to the extraordinary journey in Israel and JordanOvernight: InterContinental David, Tel AvivMeals: Dinner

A morning walking tour introduces you to the ancient port city of Jaffa (Joppa), eternally linked with the biblical tales of King Solomon, Jonah and St. Peter. Tour the ancient ruins, continuing along the winding cobblestone lanes to the reconstructed Artists’ Quarter. View the breathtaking landscape of the shoreline of Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean coast before our visit to the fascinating Ilana Goor Museum. Located in an 18th century building that once served as the first Jewish inn for pilgrims on the way to Jerusalem, this unique museum is acclaimed for its extraordinary collection of international works of art, alongside Goor’s original creations. On to the dynamic Sarona Market complex, heart of Israel’s culinary art scene, before a lunch of local specialties. A drive then reveals the contrasting architecture of this city on the sea; pausing to admire some of the city’s splendid Bauhaus buildings – more than any other city in the world. Continue to the Israeli Museum at the Yitzhak Rabin Center chronicling the life of the late Prime Minister and the development of the State of Israel. Tonight is yours for independent pursuits. Be sure to walk along the “tayelet”, the beachside promenade with trendy seaside cafes in this city that never sleepsOvernight: InterContinental David, Tel AvivMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

On the drive north along the scenic Mediterranean coast we reach spectacular Caesarea, built by King Herod, considered one of the greatest builders of the ancient world. Explore this archaeological site with its Roman and Crusader ruins, including an impressive amphitheater still being used today that once held over 20,000 people for chariot races. Afterwards, we arrive at the Tishbi Winery for an exclusive vineyard tour of this family-owned winery, one of Israel’s finest. Enjoy tastings of the many types of wine, handmade chocolates and share a delicious lunch prepared just for you. Then, on to the shimmering seaport city of Haifa, ascending to our hotel perched atop the Carmel Mountains. After time to settle in, an exclusive specially arranged cultural event. We’re invited to join a prominent Arab guest for a conversation about Arab-Israeli relations, traditions and the challenges of life in Israel. Dinner together follows at a popular restaurantOvernight: Dan Carmel, HaifaMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel via verdant rolling hills to the tranquil Sea of Galilee. At the Yigal Alon Museum, view the 2,000-year-old ancient Sea of Galilee Boat, also known as the Jesus Boat, an archaeological treasure reclaimed from the depths of the sea. Then, a truly unique experience as we embark on a replica of this boat and sail on the same waters as fisherman did in the time of Jesus. At Capernaum, view the ruins of an ancient synagogue dating back to the 4th century. Proceed to the Mount of Beatitudes, site of the Sermon on the Mount, where you stand in wonder at the expansive views of the entire region. The drive then takes us past kibbutzim that dot the area – the very beginning of Israel’s concept of collective communities traditionally based on agriculture. An unforgettable opportunity to visit a working kibbutz and get acquainted with everyday life in this rural community. Afterwards, a very unique lunch at one of the foremost Arab fusion restaurants before returning to Haifa for leisure time. Perhaps spend the rest of the afternoon walking through the “hanging gardens” at the striking golden domed Baha’i Shrine, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site or, pamper yourself with treatments at the hotel’s spaOvernight: Dan Carmel, HaifaMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

Discover the timeless city of Acre (Akko), once capital of the Crusaders, and their last stronghold in the Holy Land. Visit the elaborate Jezzar Pasha Mosque, also known as the White Mosque, inside the walls of the Old City, a superb example of Ottoman architecture. A walking tour then takes us into the ancient subterranean city, the Knight’s Hall, the citadel and other monuments recalling the colorful Middle Ages. After shopping for treasures in the bustling bazaar, we travel to Nazareth, the sacred town where Jesus spent most of his youth; visit the Basilica of the Annunciation and Mary’s Well. Lunch at a local restaurant before journeying to the remarkable archaeological site of Tzipori, 1st century capital of the Galilee. Here, view the superb mosaic floors and portrait of a woman named the “Mona Lisa of the Galilee.” The day is capped by our entrance to “golden” Jerusalem – you’ll be astonished by the stunning panorama of the city from atop the Mt. of Olives. Time to settle in at our deluxe Jerusalem hotel, superbly positioned in the heart of the city before we dine à la carte at a restaurant overlooking the walls of the Old City. Enjoy the rest of the evening in the hotel with its rich heritage and stylish ambienceOvernight: Waldorf Astoria, JerusalemMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The exploration of Jerusalem, one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world, begins in the Jewish Quarter. Walk along the Cardo, the colonnaded main street of Roman and Byzantine Jerusalem, once bordered by stately columns and lined with shops. View the four Sephardic Synagogues now restored to their former grandeur and the landmark neo-Byzantine Hurva Synagogue with its iconic arch. A traditional lunch follows at a local café before walking to the Western Wall, the last remnant of Solomon’s temple and the holiest prayer site of Judaism for over 2,000 years. You may leave a prayer note in the cracks and crevices of the wall as people of many religions have done for centuries. Then, we walk through centuries of history in the astonishing Western Wall Tunnels. The day concludes with a visit to the renowned Davidson Center where you’ll enter another world of this city’s glorious past, showcased through advanced visualization technology. Tonight, dinner at the Eucalyptus Restaurant, serving a modern interpretation of biblical cuisine – all the spices and herbs used are grown (as in ancient times) in the surrounding hills of JerusalemOvernight: Waldorf Astoria, JerusalemMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We return to the Old City this morning for views of the magnificent Dome of the Rock, sheltering the rock from which the Prophet Mohammed ascended to Heaven. Then, we follow the Via Dolorosa through the narrow alleys and souks of the Old City to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be where Jesus was crucified and buried. An exclusive culinary adventure follows at the bustling Machane Yehuda Market. A local “shuk” expert takes you step-by-step to the best food stalls in the market. The delectable lunch is a fantastic blend of home-grown flavors and fresh cooked tasty delights. Join us later for a private Wine and Hors d’oeuvres reception that opens our magical evening at the Tower of David as the sun sets over the Old City. Watch the story of Jerusalem unfold before you, with breathtaking images projected on the ancient walls – the archaeological ruins and hidden pathways of the Citadel will completely surround you in this multi-sensory experienceOvernight: Waldorf Astoria, JerusalemMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, choose to explore some of Jerusalem’s diverse neighborhoods on your own or join the tour to Bethlehem that includes a visit to the Church of the Nativity and the Milk Grotto, where the Holy Family took refuge. After lunch on your own, we visit Yad Vashem, memorial to the Holocaust. Walk through the Museum, the Children’s Pavilion and along the Avenue of the Righteous, dedicated to Christians who rescued Jews during the Holocaust. Afterwards, drive via the Supreme Court Building and the Knesset (Parliament) to the renowned Israel Museum. View the remarkable Scale Model, a miniature replica of ancient Jerusalem from the Second Temple period and the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed. After a walk through the exquisite Billy Rose sculpture garden, return to the hotel. Our dinner tonight is at the world-renowned American Colony Hotel’s gracious Arabesque RestaurantOvernight: Waldorf Astoria, JerusalemMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel via the Judean desert to the cliff top fortress at Masada, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend by cable car to this last stronghold of the Zealots in their struggle against the Romans. Visit the excavations, Herod the Great’s palace, synagogue and bathhouse – you’ll discover why the symbolism of Masada still has such tremendous significance today. Descend from these lofty heights to a Dead Sea Hotel for lunch before proceeding to the Jordan border crossing at the Allenby Bridge. After formalities, on to the sacred site at Bethany where Jesus was baptized on the southern end of the Jordan River, one of the most important discoveries in biblical archaeology. Continue to our hotel nestled amongst lush gardens on the northern shores of the Dead Sea – an oasis of tranquility. Enjoy dinner togetherOvernight: Movenpick Resort & Spa, Dead SeaMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day is yours to savor the countless pleasures of your spa-resort hotel on the edge of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth. Swim in the mineral-rich therapeutic waters or try some of the treatments at the spa. Or, choose to join the journey north to the vast archaeological site of Jerash. Known as the “Pompeii of the East,” Jerash is one of the best preserved Roman provincial towns in the world, uncovered after being hidden in the sand for centuries. Tour the soaring Temples of Artemis and Zeus, the Roman Forum, Hadrian’s Arch, the massive theatre and walk along the mile-long Street of Columns. Lunch in Jerash before returning to the hotel. In the evening, a special à la carte dinner at the hotelOvernight: Movenpick Resort & Spa, Dead SeaMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Departing the Dead Sea area, enormous contrasts in scenery as we travel through the surreal desert landscape at Wadi Rum, with its ancient river beds, wind sculpted mountains and pastel colored sands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, called the “Valley of the Moon,” served as inspiration (and filming site) for T.E. Lawrence’s novel, Lawrence of Arabia. Ride in a 4×4 vehicle to explore the valley with its looming rock faces that seem to rise out of the sand. After crossing the huge red sand dunes and eroded pillars of sandstone rock, a unique lunch awaits us in an authentic Bedouin Tent, cooked in an oven with hot coals beneath the desert floor. Arriving in Petra, we settle in at our hotel with its colorful Middle Eastern decor, situated at the entrance to the historic Jordanian city of Petra. Dinner at the hotelOvernight: Movenpick Resort, PetraMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

An astonishing day! Enter the “rose red” city of Petra, hand sculpted from a mountain range by the Nabateans in the 3rd century BC. Begin your walk (or ride) through the Siq, a winding canyon road in the shadow of massive red and pink rock walls. At the end, stand in awe at Petra’s most extraordinary monument – the towering Treasury building that rises over 140 feet. On our walk, we’ll explore soaring temples, elaborate royal tombs, a theatre, burial chambers and water channels – all remnants of a once great Nabatean culture. Petra is both a cherished Jordanian national treasure and an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, linger on your own or return to the hotel. Tonight, we gather with the Chef and local women to prepare our evening meal. You’ll learn the inside secrets of Middle Eastern cuisine at the Petra Kitchen, and try first-hand the unique Arabic way of preparation. Our personally prepared delicious dinner is shared by allOvernight: Movenpick Resort, PetraMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we travel on the storied King’s Highway towards Amman, stopping briefly to view striking Kerak Castle in this fortified Crusader town. Next, on to Madaba where we see the vivid 6th century Byzantine map created of mosaic tiles depicting Jerusalem and the Holy Lands at St. George’s Church, and to Mt. Nebo, reputed burial site of Moses with its expansive views of the Jordan Valley and Dead Sea. Enjoy an authentic Jordanian lunch before continuing to Amman, capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. An overview of Amman accents the old and new parts of the city, beginning at the towering ancient Citadel. Continue to the impressive Roman Theatre, a relic of ancient Philadelphia, and through the bustling bazaars to the modern part of the city where the American Embassy is housed. Freshen up at our 5-star hotel, an oasis of luxury in the posh diplomatic district of the city. Tonight’s Farewell Dinner is at one of the most celebrated restaurants in Amman. On this last enjoyable evening, share wonderful memories of your journey with newfound friendsOvernight: InterContinental AmmanMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

*5898 person based on twin occupancy; includes hotel accommodations, most meals, guided tours, airfare from Montreal, all transfers, airport taxes & fees and much more. Other departure cities and/or dates available at various prices. Price indicated is in US dollars applicable to certain travel dates in November 2017. OPC Indemnity Fund fee of .01% and travel insurance not included. Limited space, additional conditions and restrictions may apply. This is a limited capacity-controlled offer and is subject to change or cancellation.